Canberra Itinerary - The Art Lover
If there are two things that Canberra does exceptionally well, it’s dining and appreciation for art. Canberra is home to an impressive array of national and international art collections, museums and galleries with an abundance of culture and artistic expression. Visit Canberra and immerse yourself in culture, everything from architecture to contemporary art, craft, photography, design and cuisine.
If you’re an Art Lover and want to discover the unique Australian story and experience Canberra’s thriving art scene, then this 3-day itinerary for the ultimate art experience is a must!
DAY 1
City News Canberra | Marble & Grain | CCAS
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at Pollen Cafe and check out their cosy and stylish venue. After you’re fuelled up it’s time to explore and wander through the innovative cultural precinct New Acton. To start with, explore the pineapple-shaped Nishi building, which won the Building Awards for International Project of the year in 2015 in London. Move onto the Nishi Gallery to experience local, national and international design experimentation and artisanal making. Grab a coffee and stroll through the outdoor precinct area to discover the fascinating sculptures and artwork designed by nationally recognised artists.
Address: 17 Kendall Ln, Canberra ACT 2601
Opening hours: Wed-Sat from 11 am to 6.30 pm.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 3km, Avenue Hotel 1.7km, Pavilion 3.5km
Entry fee: Free
Lunch
Head for lunch at Kokomos right in the heart of Canberra. They serve pacific eats with focus on providing the best ingredients and the most creative cocktails. We recommend trying some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes to share and finish off with the passion fruit cheesecake ice cream sandwich. The venue itself offers a modern, creative pacific theme and an outdoor treetop balcony where you can enjoy your lunch in a relaxed atmosphere.
Address: 1 Genge St, Canberra ACT 2601
Opening hours: 11:30 am to 11 pm.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 2.7km, Avenue Hotel 0.8km, Pavilion 3.5km
Afternoon
Make your way to the Gorman Arts Centre, one of Australia’s leading spaces for the creation of contemporary art. The CCAS’ aims to provide visitors with imaginative and daring visual art. There are no limitations for artwork here, the only prerequisite is to intrigue, provoke and challenge perceptual thinking. You will find innovative art exhibitions by emerging local, national and international artists.
Address: 55 Ainslie Ave, Braddon ACT 2612
Opening hours: Tues-Sat from 10 am to 4.30 pm.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 2.4km, Avenue Hotel 1km, Pavilion 2.9km
Entry fee: Free
Dinner
After a whole day of exploring some of the many art attractions that Canberra has to offer, visit the stylish steak restaurant Marble & Grain for a perfect end to your evening. The European Steakhouse inspired Gastro-Pub offers a true gastronomic journey and a menu crafted with a variety of choices, from the most phenomenal steaks to the finest-crafted local produce.
Address: 25 Mort St, Canberra ACT 2612
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 6.30 am till late. Sat-Sun & Holidays 7 am till late
Distance from the Deco Hotel 1.4km, Avenue Hotel 0.3km, Pavilion 1.9km
DAY 2
Water’s Edge | TimeOut | National Portrait Gallery
Morning
Start your second day at Penny University, a modern version of a 17th-century coffee house. Indulge in an all-day breakfast before spending the morning exploring Canberra’s artistic area by visiting Tocumwal Lane for some modern artwork by leading graffiti artists. Head to the National Portrait Gallery situated in the heart of Canberra to discover portraits of the most important individuals who have influenced or contributed to shaping the Australian nation and society.
Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10 am to 5 pm
Distance from the Deco Hotel 4.7km, Avenue Hotel 3.4km, Pavilion 5.2km
Entry fee: Free
Lunch
Head for a late lunch at Water’s Edge, one of Canberra’s iconic restaurants located with amazing water views on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Sit back and relax in the cool white interior while enjoying an a la carte menu or a six-course degustation menu inspired by Modern European-Australian food.
Address: 40 Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600
Opening hours: Wed-Sunday 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm till late
Distance from the Deco Hotel 4.7km, Avenue Hotel 3.4km, Pavilion 5.2km
Afternoon
Alongside the National Portrait Gallery, you will find one of Australia’s largest national art museums, the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). The NGA is home to some of the most breathtaking art in the country. Explore Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art and walk around the Aboriginal Memorial. Join a tour around the NGA to learn more about the collections and special exhibitions. Pop by the NGA shop for any merchandise or souvenirs or visit the Cafe overlooking the Sculpture Garden for a coffee before heading for lunch. Check out the latest exhibitions and what’s on at NGA.
Address: Parkes Pl E, Parkes ACT 2600
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10 am - 5 pm, except Christmas Day.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 5.3km, Avenue Hotel 4km, Pavilion 5.8km
Entry fee: Free
Dinner
Visit Wild Duck for an extra-fine Asian dining experience. The restaurant and decor are warm, welcoming and well-presented just like the dishes. Explore the exciting world of China’s domestic cuisine and other authentic offerings from South East Asia. You will not be disappointed!
Address: 77-78/71 Giles St, Kingston ACT 2604
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12 pm till late.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 6.9km, Avenue Hotel 5.6km, Pavilion 8.1km
DAY 3
Weekend Notes | Visit Canberra | Fyshwick Markets
Morning
Kick your day off at the Cupping Room for breakfast and a brew before visiting the Beaver Galleries, one of Canberra’s largest privately owned commercial galleries. Explore the unique contemporary art by various Australian Artists. Check out the sculpture garden and the Gallery Shop before heading off to an early lunch.
Address: 81 Denison St, Deakin ACT 2600
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10 am to 5 pm
Distance from Deco Hotel 9.2km, Avenue Hotel 7.9km, Pavilion 9.7km
Entry fee: Free
Lunch
For lunch head to Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets for some fresh produce, seafood and baked goods. If you are traveling with family, head to Questacon Science Garden and Questacon Science and Technology Centre for an interactive and educational experience and a unique outdoor exhibit featuring earth elements and sculptures. Treat yourself to a delicious snack at the Questacon Atomic Cafe.
Address: King Edward Terrace, Canberra ACT 2600
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9 am to 5 pm. Except for Christmas Day.
Distance from Deco Hotel 6.4km, Avenue Hotel 4.1km, Pavilion 6.7km
Entry fee: Depends. Check Pricelist.
Afternoon
Visit Canberra Glassworks in the Kingston Power House, Australia’s leading and dedicated centre for contemporary glass art, craft and design, for a unique art experience. Explore one of the exhibitions, get insights into the art glass process by watching artists create their art live in the Hotshop or listen to one of the entertaining artist talks. Join a free Heritage Tour and learn about Canberra’s oldest public building or create your own glass art at the Make Your Own sessions.
Address: 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston ACT
Opening hours: Wed-Sun 10 am to 4 pm.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 8.6km, Avenue Hotel 6.6km, Pavilion 10km
Entry fee: Entry by donation.
Dinner
Finish your last night off with a visit to the gastronomic gem Aubergine located in the inner southside suburb of Griffth. The restaurant has obtained various awards throughout the years, including 2 SMH Chef hats and a ranking in the Financial Review Australia’s Top Restaurant List. The venue itself is a piece of art with its high ceilings, beautiful lights, dramatic dark walls and intimate interior. The food style is contemporary with a classical background. Not to mention their wine list that has received numerous awards. A perfect end to your Canberra visit.
Address: 18 Barker Street Griffith, Canberra ACT 2603
Opening hours: Tues-Sat from 6 pm. Closed 23 Dec to 1 Jan.
Distance from the Deco Hotel 10.7km, Avenue Hotel 8.4km, Pavilion 11km
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